Straight From The Source Blog

As an employer, how do you know if one of your workers is suffering from a mental health issue? And if you’re aware of an issue, how do you help without creating an uncomfortable situation or violating privacy laws?

On May 12, 2016, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a final rule requiring certain employers to electronically submit data from their work-related injury records. OSHA included anti-retaliation provisions in the final rule, which takes effect Dec. 1, 2016.

A federal district court in Texas granted a preliminary injunction against the new FLSA overtime rule set to go into effect on December 1. Therefore, the rule is halted and will not go into effect on December 1, giving you a reprieve until the matter can be litigated.

As a religious organization, you play a crucial role in supporting the spiritual needs of your congregation and the goodwill of the community. But like any organization, you also have your own practical needs that must be met if you’re going to continue your vital work and maintain your commitment to those you serve.

Just like last year, the IRS has pushed back the due dates for some of the 2016 reporting requirements under the ACA. Notice 2016-70, issued last Friday, extended the deadline for furnishing individual statements under Sections 6055 and 6056 by 30 days – changing the due date from January 31, 2017 to March 2, 2017. It also extended the good-faith transition relief from penalties that was granted in 2016 for 2015 filings so that 2016 filings are due in 2017. However, be aware that the notice did not extend any deadlines related to submitting forms to the IRS – those due dates remain February 28, 2017 if filing via paper, or March 31, 2017 if filing electronically.

After hard-fought campaigns by both candidates, Republican candidate Donald Trump has been elected the 45th president of the United States. Trump’s victory in the election, along with Republican majorities retained in both the Senate and House of Representatives, will likely have a significant impact on a number of compliance issues over the next four years. During his campaign, Trump called for a repeal of President Barack Obama’s hallmark health care reform legislation, the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In addition, Trump’s victory raises uncertainty over the future of other policies enacted under President Obama, including the new overtime requirements under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

According to the National Safety Council, around 25,000 slip, trip and fall accidents happen every day in workplaces all across the U.S. And that’s just one of many sobering statistics about this all-too-common risk:

They’re back – The ghosts, ghouls and goblins of Halloween have returned as millions around the world prepare to celebrate another season of creepy fun. It’s also a good time to remind you of the spooky risks you face in your business every day of the year. There’s nothing fun about these goblins!

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Higginbotham Insurance Group

Higginbotham is comprised of offices located across Texas that work in unison to provide a Single Source solution no matter which is your local partner. Each one has the complete insurance and financial service capabilities that differentiate Higginbotham and the personal service that further distinguishes us. Together, we are one of the largest independent insurance brokers in Texas and the U.S.